Cytokine profiling reveals HLA-linked Th2 and Th17 driven immune activation in pemphigus vulgaris patients and genetically susceptible healthy controls

Our data suggest the existence of a limited immune activation linked to the presence of key PV associated HLA alleles regardless of disease status. Interestingly, the cytokines IL-10 and IL-15 were found to be significantly downregulated in the HLA-matched control group, suggesting the presence of a possible counter-regulatory function in genetically susceptible but disease-free individuals.